September 25, 2020 | Issue # 171
This week, a report came out with alarming news about community college enrollments. According to the National Student Clearinghouse Research Center report, so far this fall, community college enrollments have declined by an average of 7.5%. Looking more closely, we find that traditional-age students and Black students were far less likely to enroll at community colleges this fall. Enrollment declines can have consequences on many fronts, not only for our institutions, but also for the populations we serve and for the economy in general. We’ll continue to monitor this and work with you all on ways to move forward.
Also this week, we posted a new framework for action on diversity, equity, and inclusion. Our work in this area is more urgent than ever before. You can learn more about the framework in the Must Know section.
Finally, I’d like to congratulate the AACC Awards of Excellence winners, as well as all the awards finalists. The virtual ceremony took place last week. If you missed it, you can watch it here. Also, on Thursday, we honored the amazing recipients of the Dale P. Parnell Distinguished Faculty Recognition. It’s been wonderful to be able to recognize the inspiring work happening at community colleges.
“Has Remote Learning Made Colleges More Cyber-Vulnerable?”
The shift to remote classes has led to a spike in cybersecurity needs, although not necessarily greater success on the part of hackers. Read how colleges are fending off attacks in this CC Daily article.
“Giving Back to Essential Workers”
The Futures for Frontliners program in Michigan supports the educational goals of essential workers. Learn about the program at the AACC 21st Century Center blog.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: Framework for Action
Recent events prompted an update to our Joint Statement of Commitment to Equity, Diversity, and Excellence in Student Success and Leadership Development. We recognized then that words were not enough to help leaders as they navigate their college communities through issues related to the injustices of systemic racism. We have put together a framework intended to provide you with principles for initial activities related to diversity, equity, and inclusion on your campus. Read it here. We will continue to identify and share resources and opportunities to engage in this critical work.
Complete This Brief Travel Survey
AACC is conducting a survey to get a better understanding of the willingness and ability of member CEOs and staff to travel to in-person meetings. This information will help us to better serve you. To take this short survey, click here.
This week, AACC hosted a webinar, “Supporting the President – Community College Presidents and Spouses.” If you missed it, you can watch it here.
Submit Nominations for the AACC Board of Directors and PAEC
The process for nominating individuals for consideration for inclusion on the 2021 slate for the AACC Board of Directors and the Presidents Academy Executive Committee (PAEC) is open. The AACC Board acts on behalf of the institutional members to create and maintain a vision for AACC and to determine and ensure that the organization adheres to appropriate standards of performance. The PAEC was created by the AACC Board of Directors to advise the AACC president and CEO and AACC Board of Directors on professional development training for CEOs. Individuals may nominate or self-nominate for consideration. Candidates must hold the position of CEO of an institutional member college to be considered for the AACC Board or PAEC. Nominations may be emailed to amroyal@aacc.nche.edu. The deadline to submit nominations is October 5, 2020, at 5:00 p.m. (ET).